pair

Two things that belong together or are used together.

• I bought a pair of shoes.
• These gloves make a matching pair.
• Where is my other pair of glasses?

How to use it: a pair of something (She bought a pair of earrings.)

Common phrases: a pair of, matching pair, pair of shoes

Two people who are together as friends, partners, or a couple.

• They make a lovely pair.
• The pair have been friends for years.
• Those two dancers are an excellent pair.

Similar words: couple, duo

Common phrases: a happy pair, a lovely pair, an unlikely pair

Two animals joined together to pull a vehicle or do farm work.

• A pair pulled the cart.
• The farmer harnessed a pair of oxen.
• Driving a pair requires practice.

Similar words: team

Common phrases: a matched pair, a strong pair, drive a pair

To put two people or things together so they can work or be used together.

• Pair each student with a partner.
• I paired my headphones with my phone.
• These shoes pair well with jeans.

How to use it: pair A with B (The teacher paired me with Anna.); pair A and B (Pair your phone and headphones before listening.)

Similar words: match, link

Opposites: separate

Common phrases: pair with something, pair two devices, pair someone with, pair up